Finnish Defenseman Pokka Signs ELC

The New York Islanders have agreed to terms on a 3-year entry level contract with 19 year old Finnish defenseman, Ville Pokka. Pokka was the Islanders 2nd round, 34th overall pick in the 2012 NHL entry draft.

A native of Torino, Finland, Pokka played last season with Karpat in Finland's top professional league (SM-Liiga). In what was his third professional season, Pokka amassed 6 goals and 21 assists for 27 points over 54 games. Aside from his 3 years of professional experience, Pokka has a good amount of international experience as well having represented Finalnd annually since 2011 in his respective age group. In 2012, 2013 and 2014, Pokka was part of the Finnish World Junior Championship teams where he won gold in 2014.

The Islanders see Pokka as a highly touted prospect and look to have him as a key member of the Isles defence in the not too distant future. As far as next year goes, Pokka will more than likely join the Bridgeport Sound Tigers in what will be a crouded blueline. Along with Pokka, the defensive core in Bridgeport could consist of Scott Mayfield, Andrey Pedan, Kyle Burroughs, Adam Pelech and potentially Ryan Pulock among others. Until then, add the signing of Pokka to the signing of Jaroslav Halak as a good start to the offseason by General Manager Garth Snow.